Catalyst Giving Circle Grants

Geographic Scope: Berlin, New Britain, Plainville, and Southington, Connecticut

The Catalyst Giving Circle is a grassroots philanthropy program where members pool their contributions into a collective fund that is matched/supplemented by the Foundation to create a $20,000 annual grant. Members vote on which local nonprofit organization and program addressing a community-selected issue will receive the grant.

How It Works:

1. Learn Together: Three times per year, Catalyst members meet to explore a community issue selected by the group and hear from local nonprofits and experts working on the front lines
2. Give with Purpose: Members review funding proposals from local nonprofits addressing that issue and vote to decide which program(s) to support
3. Build Real Impact: Since 2009, Catalyst has awarded over $247,500 in grants to local programs

Membership Options:

• Discovery Member: $50 (first-time members)
• Annual Member: $250
• Business Sponsor: $250

Focus Areas: Community-selected issues (e.g., "Workforce of the Future" in 2017)

Impact: Since 2009, awarded more than $247,500 in grants to local programs addressing important community needs

Contact Information:

• Joeline Wruck, Director of Grants & Initiatives
• Phone: 860.229.6018 ext. 307
• Email: jwruck@cfgnb.org
• Website: cfgnb.org
• Mailing Address: 74A Vine Street, New Britain, CT 06052

Background: Established in 1941, the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain manages grants and charitable assets to improve quality of life in the service area.

Catalyst Grant Application Process

1. Become a Member: Join Catalyst by selecting a membership level (Discovery Member at $50, Annual Member or Business Sponsor at $250)
2. Attend Learning Meetings: Participate in three annual meetings to learn about the selected community issue and hear from nonprofit experts
3. Review Proposals: Members receive and review funding proposals from local nonprofits addressing the selected issue
4. Vote: Cast your vote to determine which program(s) receive the annual $20,000 grant award

Required Materials for Nonprofits Applying:

• Funding proposal addressing the annual community-selected issue
• Organization information and track record

More Information: Download Catalyst Membership Form and Catalyst Grant History from website

Contact Joeline Wruck at jwruck@cfgnb.org or 860.229.6018 ext. 307 for details on joining or applying.